ANDOVER is getting ready for a Christmas Festival that includes a pop-up market, live music and light shows among many other activities.

Andover Christmas Festival will be held in the town centre from 3pm to 8pm on Friday, November 25.

The event has been organised in partnership with Test Valley Borough Council, InAndover from Andover BID, and Andover Town Council.

The family-friendly event is set to kick-start the festive season in town with activities for everyone to enjoy.

It will be a free event.

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A pop-up Christmas market will be taking place in Bridge Street, packed with a variety of stalls.

Local traders will be selling their unique and handmade gifts and street food will be on offer as well as warming hot chocolate and spiced mulled wine.

Live music is expected to create a festive atmosphere as local musicians, choirs, schools and other organisations are set to perform.

A large stage will be placed in the High Street opposite the Guildhall and a special acoustic stage will be situated in Riverside Park near to Wilkos.

Both will host a series of performers throughout the afternoon and evening.

Visitors will be able to enjoy a series of light shows across the town and celebrate the official Christmas Lights switch on at 6.30pm. There will also be free face painting for children, fairground rides and traditional game stalls for everyone to enjoy.

The Chantry Centre will be offering a photo opportunity as a giant snow globe will be taking centre stage in the indoor garden area.

Father Christmas will also be flying into the centre to open his Grotto for the first time this year and meet families during the evening.

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He will then return the following day and on select dates in the lead-up to Christmas. Tickets will be available to purchase on the door and all dates and times can be found at: thechantrycentre.com

Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Cllr Phil North said: “Next week’s Christmas Festival will be a fantastic event and a great way for us all to celebrate the festive season.

“There will be plenty on offer from the Grotto and games to markets and music. This will be a different event to the one we have held previously in the town, but there will be a lot of variety and something for everyone to come along and enjoy.”

For more information, go to inandover.co.uk/events/andover-christmas-festival.